How to Run a 15 Minute Concussion Check

Be it on the field, at work, or even at home, when someone experiences a hit on the head, time is of the essence. Learning to recognize the symptoms of a concussion can prevent emergencies and lasting issues.

Concussion assessment doesn’t need to be lengthy or overwhelming: in just fifteen minutes, you can triage for emergencies, spot core signs, and help set up a safer return-to-learn or play. Here’s how to get it done quickly, accurately, and with confidence.

1.  Red Flag Screening: Don’t Miss Emergencies

First things first: make sure the patient isn’t in immediate danger. Ask about, look for, and document any of these “red flag” symptoms:

• Loss of consciousness for more than a minute
• Repeated vomiting
• Severe or worsening headache
• Slurred speech, weakness, or confusion
• Seizures
• Blood or clear fluid from the nose or ears

If you spot any of these, especially after a car accident or sports injury, call emergency services and arrange urgent imaging. This is not the time to wait and see: all red flags need prompt action.

2.  Assess with Evidence-Based Screening Tools

After you’ve ruled out serious danger, move to a focused assessment. Today, there is a wide range of tools available to help with diagnosing concussions, including tools like SCAT6 or SCOAT6 (for athletes), Concussion Recognition Tool (CRT6), which can be used by non-medics, and Standardized Assessment of Concussion (SAC) for clinicians.

For rapid screening:

• Ask about symptom onset: headache, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, nausea, blurry vision.
• Assess memory and orientation. Ask the patient to recall five words after a short delay and confirm they know who they are, where they are, and what day or time it is.
• Test attention and concentration by having them recite numbers or the months of the year in reverse order.
• Check for balance and coordination by observing stance or heel-to-toe walking.

For clinics or sideline teams, having digital checklists (on tablets or phones) can help you follow each step without missing details.

3.  Vestibular-Ocular and Balance Testing

Next, spend a few minutes on targeted physical checks:

• Quick VOMS (Vestibular/Ocular Motor Screening): Ask the patient to track your finger side to side, up and down, and focus on convergence (bring finger slowly toward their nose). Look for complaints of dizziness, difficulty focusing, or eye fatigue.
• Modified BESS Test: Ask them to stand with feet together, then on one leg, then tandem (heel to toe). Have them hold each stance for 20 seconds, eyes closed. Look out for wobbles or increased sway.

Balance or gaze issues should prompt careful monitoring, as these can be signs of concussion even when everything else looks okay.

4.  Neck and Eyes: Brief, Targeted Exam

A quick check of the neck and eyes can reveal important signs of concussion or related injuries. Here’s what to look for in this targeted exam:

• Cervical Spine: Check active range of motion in the neck. Watch for pain during movement or tenderness. Stiffness can overlap with head injury or even hide a cervical sprain.
• Eyes: Quickly inspect pupils (equal and reactive?), note any double vision, and ask about light sensitivity.

These screens take less than two minutes each and round out your concussion triage.

5.  Documentation and Early Advice

Document your findings clearly, including symptoms, red flags, exam results, and your clinical impression. Using a digital checklist helps keep everything organized and easy to share with other providers.

Give clear advice on what warning signs to watch for and when to seek urgent help. Encourage cognitive and physical rest (but not total isolation), hydration, light nutrition, and no risky activities. For kids, suggest easing back into schoolwork and activities as symptoms allow.

6.  When to Refer for Specialized Help

If you notice persistent symptoms, uncertain findings, or complications, it’s important to refer the patient promptly. Early expert intervention matters: partnering with specialists can offer access to advanced assessments, cutting-edge therapies, and targeted follow-up that general clinics may not provide.

Connecting patients with specialized concussion care for recovery ensures they receive the right evaluations and helps prevent dangerous complications or missed emergencies. Experts can also guide long-term care to lower the risk of post-concussion syndrome, a condition where symptoms like headaches, brain fog, or mood changes linger for weeks or even months.

Ongoing support and monitoring from a concussion specialist help catch any signs of delayed problems, ensuring patients heal fully and get safely back to their usual activities. Early, specialized care is key for both immediate safety and lasting well-being.

Safe, Timely Checks Make All the Difference

With a clear, rapid approach, you can spot the warning signs, offer practical support, and empower patients and their families. For more on evidence-based tests and sideline protocols, check out our top resources for concussion management and clinical best practices.